Old Fashioned Custard Pie – Easy, Creamy & Classic

There’s something so comforting about an old fashioned custard pie. It’s simple, creamy, and beautifully nostalgic—exactly the kind of dessert that feels like it came straight from grandma’s kitchen. No fancy techniques, no complicated ingredients, just pure classic goodness in every slice.

This old fashioned custard pie is perfect when you want an easy dessert that still feels special. It comes together quickly, bakes into a silky-smooth filling, and finishes with a gentle sprinkle of nutmeg that makes the whole kitchen smell amazing. It’s ideal for holidays, Sunday dinners, or those moments when you crave an old-school treat.

If you love timeless recipes that always work, this is one pie you’ll want to keep in your favorites.

More Recipes

• No-Sugar Apple Pie Recipe

Ingredients for Old Fashioned Custard Pie

This classic custard pie uses simple pantry staples to create a smooth, creamy filling with that signature old-fashioned flavor. Each ingredient plays an important role, so keep it simple and stick to the basics for the best results.

• 1 unbaked deep-dish pie shell (9-inch / 23 cm), or make it using my homemade pie crust recipe
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• ½ cup granulated sugar (100 g)
• ½ teaspoon salt (about 3 g)
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2⅔ cups milk (630 ml), whole milk preferred for creaminess
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (5 ml)
• Freshly grated nutmeg, for topping (optional but recommended)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make a perfectly smooth and creamy old fashioned custard pie every time.

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the oven rack in the center position for even baking.
2. Lightly beat the eggs in a medium mixing bowl until the yolks and whites are fully combined.
3. Add the sugar, salt, and ground nutmeg to the eggs. Whisk gently to blend without creating too many bubbles.
4. Slowly whisk in the milk (630 ml), followed by the vanilla extract (5 ml), until the custard mixture looks smooth and well combined.
5. Pour the custard mixture carefully into the unbaked deep-dish pie shell.
6. Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the custard sets around the edges and the center still has a slight jiggle.
7. Remove the pie from the oven and place it on a wire rack. Let it cool completely to allow the custard to fully set.
8. Sprinkle the top with freshly grated nutmeg just before serving for a classic finishing touch.

✨ Baking Tip: The custard continues to firm up as it cools, so don’t worry if the center feels slightly soft when you remove it from the oven.

TIPS & VARIATIONS

These simple tips help you get the smoothest texture and allow you to customize your old fashioned custard pie without losing its classic charm.

Helpful Baking Tips

• Use room-temperature eggs to help the custard blend smoothly and bake evenly.
• Whisk gently, not vigorously, to avoid adding air bubbles that can affect the custard’s texture.
• Check doneness early. The edges should be set while the center still has a gentle jiggle.
• Cool completely before slicing so the custard has time to fully set.

Easy Variations

• Extra creamy: Replace ½ cup (120 ml) of the milk with heavy cream (120 ml).
• Warm spice twist: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or cloves for deeper flavor.
• Less sweet: Reduce the sugar to ⅓ cup (65 g) if you prefer a lighter sweetness.
• Dairy-free option: Use full-fat coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk (flavor will change slightly).

Storage & Make-Ahead

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make ahead: Bake the pie a day in advance and refrigerate overnight for best texture.

SERVING IDEAS

This old fashioned custard pie shines on its own, but a few simple touches can make it feel extra special for any occasion.

Simple & Classic

• Serve chilled or at room temperature with a light dusting of nutmeg.
• Add a small dollop of whipped cream for a soft, creamy contrast.

Elevated Treats

• Pair with fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for brightness.
• Drizzle lightly with honey or caramel sauce for added sweetness.

Perfect for Any Occasion

• Weeknight dessert: Keep it simple with coffee or tea.
• Holiday table: Serve alongside pumpkin pie or apple pie for a classic dessert spread.
• Brunch option: Pair with fresh fruit and warm drinks for an easy, elegant finish.

FAQs

Recipe

Yield: 1 pie

Old Fashioned Custard Pie

Print

This old fashioned custard pie is smooth, creamy, and beautifully simple. Made with pantry staples and gently baked, it’s a timeless dessert that never goes out of style.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 unbaked deep-dish pie shell (9-inch / 23 cm)
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup granulated sugar (100 g)
• ½ teaspoon salt (about 3 g)
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2⅔ cups milk (630 ml)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (5 ml)
• Freshly grated nutmeg, for topping (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and position the rack in the center.
   
2. Lightly beat the eggs in a medium bowl until combined.
   
3. Add the sugar, salt, and ground nutmeg. Whisk gently.
   
4. Slowly whisk in the milk (630 ml), then stir in the vanilla extract (5 ml) until smooth.
   
5. Pour the custard mixture into the unbaked deep-dish pie shell.
   
6. Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the edges are set and the center still jiggles slightly.
   
7. Remove from the oven and let the pie cool completely to fully set.
   
8. Sprinkle with freshly grated nutmeg before serving, if desired.

Notes

The custard firms up as it cools, so avoid overbaking.

Whole milk gives the creamiest texture.

Chill before slicing for clean, neat pieces.

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 8 Serving Size: 1 slice
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 260

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients used.

This old fashioned custard pie is proof that simple recipes can be the most comforting. With its creamy texture, warm nutmeg flavor, and classic charm, it’s the kind of dessert that never goes out of style and always brings smiles to the table.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Leave a comment, share your tips, or let me know if you added your own twist. Don’t forget to save this recipe on Pinterest so you can come back to it whenever that custard pie craving hits 🤍🥧

Happy baking!